“The Attorney General will prepare the appropriate paperwork for the Chief Justice Patu Falefatu Sapolu for the endorsement of the Head of State,” a translation of the Cabinet paper reads.

“This matter is conducted in an expedited manner in accordance with section 38 (a) (c) of the Constitution of the Samoa Government.”

The extension of Chief Justice Patu’s contract was confirmed by Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, who explained there are many cases before His Honour Patu that he needs to deal with before he retires.

The Prime Minister said the Chief Justice’s long years of service were taken into account and his wealth of experience in dealing with legal matters.